Jazz & Colors

The first annual Jazz & Colors event, a free public concert featuring thirty jazz ensembles performing in Central Park, will take place on November 10. The event, which might be described as a musical version of Christo’s The Gates, will feature ensembles ranging in size from small combos to big bands, including, among others, the Cuban-born saxophonist Yosvany Terry, The Mingus Big Band, and the harmonica virtuoso Gregoire Maret.

All ensembles will play the same two sets of songs, each designed to reflect “jazz music’s strong ties both to New York City and to its most famous urban oasis – Central Park.” The music performed will include John Coltrane’s “Central Park West,” Thelonious Monk’s “Straight No Chaser,” and Charlie Parker’s “Scrapple from the Apple.” Musicians will be stationed “at some of Central Park’s most iconic sites from noon to 4:00 p.m., offering attendees the unique opportunity to create a personalized concert experience as they explore the event’s sights and sounds.” (A map of the park with the locations of each ensemble is available here).

This event is free and open to the public. For more information, please visit jazzandcolors.com.